Name: Ariana Annunziato
Age: 19
Major: Communication, Journalism
Class: Sophomore (Class of 2019)
Relationship Status: Single
What are three words you would use to describe yourself?
Sarcastic, determined, liberal.
What’s your favorite feature about yourself?
My favorite feature is my mouth—the stuff that comes out of it surprises even me sometimes and I like my lips.
What advice would you give to young girls?
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something for any reason, especially not because “you’re a girl”. If you want it, work for it and make it happen. Prove them wrong.
How do you define “beautiful”?
I don’t really have a set definition. I think beauty is an extremely relative term, but a few things that I find beautiful are blue eyes, acts of kindness, and tattoos.
Who was the best female role model for you when growing up and why?
I looked up to a lot of people as a kid—my mom, my sister, Hillary Duff, the list goes on. But my favorite role model was probably Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy, in The Devil Wears Prada. Not only did she help me realize I wanted a career in journalism, but her integrity was also inspiring.
What’s the best thing about being a woman in your opinion?
Definitely seeing the look on people’s faces when you say or do something that a woman isn’t “supposed” to say or do.
What’s one challenge you’ve faced as a woman? How did you combat it?
Catcalling. I HATE being whistled at or yelled after, it’s made to seem flattering but it’s actually extremely degrading. I’ve learned to tune it out most of the time, but sometimes it’s fun to give them a taste of their own medicine ;)
What’s one stereotype about females that you want to counteract?
That we need a man. No, sweetie, I don’t. I may want you, but I certainly do not need you.
What are your #goals for the future?
My #goals are to be 100 percent self-sufficient. I want to have my own career, money, friends, hobbies, and values. If someone’s goals align with mine, then that’s fantastic; but if not, I refuse to change my plans to convenience someone else.
Why do you #LoveYourself?
I love myself because my mind and heart are always open. I have love and respect for people of all races, genders, sexual orientations, and religions.